Rise above the haze at Tokyo Smoke

By Austin Taylor

With cannabis legalization comfortably settling in and new or previously undercover herb enthusiasts coming out of the woodwork, it’s refreshing to see Tokyo Smoke rise above the haze as much more than your average cannabis retailer. Their objective is to change the public perception and stigma of cannabis use. This is accomplished through educational programs, community engagement, design focused products and high end retail experience far more akin to an uptown boutique than your standard strip mall head shop.

In 2015, father-son duo Alan & Lorne Gertner established their first location in Toronto. Designed from a customer first perspective, the shop aimed at making their stores as informative and educational as possible. This vision includes education bays throughout each store where visitors can casually browse informational materials and feel comfortable asking their knowledgeable staff any cannabis inquiry they may have. Their stores are a space for people to feel comfortable asking questions, taking their time to learn what is right for them. Which strain well help me fall asleep? What is CBD? Can I actually take that much pot on a domestic flight? All common questions accompanying the recent influx in cannabis users. Tokyo Smoke believes in changing the world through cannabis normalization, this includes community programs such as offsite cannabis education sessions offered to groups and businesses.

Now open in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and most recently Manitoba, their stores feature a well curated assortment. Products range from designer rolling papers, artisanal bongs, tech grinders and luxury paraphernalia to graphic T-shirts and Nalgene bottles printed with “bong water”—all are displayed within a contemporary and inviting retail space. Each brand and item has been carefully selected to compliment their hi-brow design sensibilities and pro cannabis mantra. Featuring local brands such as A-Ok Studios and international hemp heavyweights Mister Green.

With so much authenticity and quality brought into their retail space and branding, it’s was only a matter of time until they start producing their own cannabis. Tokyo Smoke is set to launch a line of cannabis products in the near future. They plan to start with dried flower and expanding along with updated legislation to edibles and vape pens.

Tokyo Smoke Vancouver recently opened its doors at 150 W Hastings St. A distinct addition to the DTES thriving cannabis community. Whether you are eager to learn about cannabinoids or looking for the perfect holiday gift for the design conscious cannabis aficionado in your life, check out Tokyo Smoke online or now in store.